Lessons I’ve learned while being a Parkinson’s caregiver
Caregiving for a loved one is one of the most challenging, demanding, and often frustrating jobs that I can think of. My husband, Eric, and I never anticipated that I’d be his caregiver, but…
PD: The WE Journey — Jill Hammergren
Jill Hammergren lives in the magnificent state of North Carolina. Her husband, Eric, was 53 when he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) — not “officially young onset” — but officially diagnosed with a rare, progressive, neurodegenerative disease. While he has PD, they live it, so she hopes her column, “PD: The WE Journey,” will help others living with PD and care partners know they are not alone. Jill also produces TV, film, and video. She loves the beach, travel, and is an avid sports fan, who often shares a MIZ with all the Missouri Tigers!
Featured Post
Navigating uncharted waters as a Parkinson’s caregiver
As a caregiver to a husband with Parkinson’s disease, I often feel like we’re in an unseaworthy boat surrounded by sharks, searching for a lighthouse. So far, nearly 11 years after my husband…
Read more
Things I love about our shared Parkinson’s journey
During our shared Parkinson’s journey, my husband, Eric, and I have experienced much frustration, anger, and heartache over the challenges that the disease imposes on our lives. For my mental well-being, I meditate…
Our journey’s silver lining has been the Parkinson’s community
The air rushed out of my lungs, and tears filled my eyes. Eric’s face dropped, and his shoulders slumped. Simultaneously, we’d been gut-punched. In 2014, 7.2 billion people lived on Earth, but on…
Being a caregiver is hard, making self-care and support crucial
Many of us readily lend a hand when a loved one, friend, or neighbor needs support, especially if it’s a one-time occurrence. These are typically straightforward things like driving them to an appointment when…
Accessibility is a necessity for those with mobility issues
I’ve always advocated for accessibility for all. For more than 30 years, I worked and volunteered for organizations supporting and encouraging opportunities for people with disabilities. Now, as a caregiver for someone with a…
Deep brain stimulation surgery was life-changing for my husband
I’ve often heard people scoff “It’s not rocket science” or “It’s not brain surgery” when expecting someone to accomplish an easy task. But as I tried to calm my jangling nerves, an important clarification…
How a red light and profanity have helped us in life with Parkinson’s
The 25-watt red bulb in the bedside table lamp gives the room an eerie glow. I chuckle as I remember my husband, Eric, and I giggling when we bought that novelty cherry bulb 15…
How a herky-jerky, wonky walk led to a Parkinson’s diagnosis
The pneumatic doors whooshed open, revealing an expansive, tiled lobby and a closed door about 15 feet away. I entered the fluorescent-washed space, but Eric’s awkward, lumbering gait halted. I offered him my hand.
